Every US LLC, in every state, is legally required to have a Registered Agent. If you skip this or your agent resigns, your LLC can be dissolved by the state. Here is what you actually need to know.
What a Registered Agent does
A Registered Agent is a person or company located in your LLC's state of formation. Their job is to receive official mail on your behalf. Service of process (lawsuits), state tax notices, and annual report reminders. And forward them to you.
The agent must have a physical street address in the state (not a PO box) and be available during normal business hours.
Why you can't just use your own address
If you are not a resident of the state where the LLC is formed, you cannot be the Registered Agent.
Even if you are a resident, listing your home address makes it public and means a process server can show up at your home to deliver a lawsuit. Most owners prefer to keep this off their personal address.
What a good Registered Agent costs
Industry standard is $50-$150 per year. Premium services charge more but rarely add value beyond mail scanning.
Bastion Formations includes Registered Agent service in every state package. Wyoming starts at $29/year.
What to look for
Same-day mail scanning and email forwarding.
Compliance reminders before annual reports are due (so your LLC doesn't get dissolved for a missed filing).
A clear cancellation policy if you change agents later.
Long track record. Switching agents costs a state filing fee of $25-$100.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I don't have a Registered Agent?+
The state will eventually dissolve your LLC for being out of compliance. Reinstating it costs a few hundred dollars and you lose any liability protection you had during the lapsed period.
Can I be my own Registered Agent?+
Only if you live in the LLC's state of formation, have a physical address there, and are available during business hours. Non-US residents cannot be their own agent.
How do I change my Registered Agent?+
File a 'change of registered agent' form with the state. It usually costs $25-$100 and takes a few days. Your new agent typically handles the paperwork for you.
Open your US LLC the easy way
Formation, EIN and Registered Agent in one fixed-price package. Real humans on WhatsApp when you need help.